Skaggs' solid MLB debut makes it worth the wait

The Diamondbacks recalled their prized lefty prospect, Tyler Skaggs, to pitch in the first game of a doubleheader against the Marlins Wednesday and he didn't disappoint, giving up two runs and three hits while striking out four and walking five in 6 2/3 frames for the win.

Skaggs, 21, was 4-2 with a 2.91 ERA and 45 strikeouts against only 16 walks in nine starts (52 2/3 innings) with Class AAA Reno before the promotion. In 13 starts at Class AA Mobile, he went 5-4 with a 2.84 ERA, 71 strikeouts and 21 walks in 69 2/3 stanzas. Unlike Trevor Bauer, who was unsuccessful in his audition with the Snakes in July, Skaggs has displayed excellent command throughout his minor league trials.

It's unclear how the D'backs will use Skaggs, but what is clear: he will remain with the team. The bullpen is likely his immediate destination. However, Joe Saunders was placed on trade waivers and could be dealt, which would open a rotation spot. A six-man rotation in September shouldn't be ruled out, either.

While it may not pay off immediately, Skaggs is worth stashing in deep mixed affairs in the hope that he'll be starting again, at least in September. The Diamondbacks will probably want to get a better look at him against major league hitters, especially if they fall further out of the playoff picture. -Keith Hernandez

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When a player finds regular work for the Colorado Rockies, dwellers of hitter's haven Coors Field, fantasy owners scramble to snag said beneficiary. The latest: Charlie Blackmon, who'll man right field. Michael Cuddyer (oblique) might be done for 2012, and Eric Young Jr. hit the shelf recently (strained ribcage muscle).

Blackmon didn't show much in the box during his MLB debut last season (.255-1-8 in 98 at-bats), which was shortened by a fractured left foot. He's 2-for-19 so far this time around. The lefty stick doesn't make much contact and was at least partially aided by friendly environs to inflate his numbers. He still has some developing to do, even for a 26-year-old.

Perhaps he's just a late bloomer. He showed his speed, or at least swiftness, in 2011 with five swipes and could reach 25 or more thefts in a full campaign. He'll take free passes at an average rate and carries a hint of pop.

His lumber came to life during a summer hot streak for Class AAA Colorado Springs, after an early-season battle with turf toe. He showed more authoritative contact and posted an impressive .303-5-34 line there in 59 games. Though he had environmental help, he's using the lower half of his body more efficiently during his swing, per Jim Tracy.

Even after Young returns, Blackmon should sneak in reps thanks to his capability at all three spots. The decent chance of him tapping into his all-around game deserves a month-plus look from deep mixed managers with four- or five-outfielder lineups, at minimum as a home platoon start. -Tim Heaney

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About Steve Gardner

Steve's been with USA TODAY in one form or another since 1993. He started
at USATODAY.com in 1996, becoming the website's baseball editor in 1999, and
has written the fantasy baseball column for Sports Weekly since 2006. Follow
him on Twitter: @sgardnerUSAT.